How often should I wash my new tattoo?

Among all the questions we get about the washing process of a new tattoo, there's one that stands out from the rest: How often should you wash your new tattoo? Generally, it is recommended that you wash your tattoo around 2-3 times a day until it is completely healed, which can take several months.

How often should you wash your tattoo after getting it?

Most tattoo artists recommend you wash your tattoo with professional tattoo cleanser or soap and water 2-3 times a day, at least for the first two weeks.

Should I clean my new tattoo every day?

Here's how often you should wash your new tattoo: For the first time, within 5–24 hours of getting it. At least daily until it's completely healed – ideally twice-daily. Each time your tattoo becomes contaminated with dirt or bacteria.

How often should I wash and moisturize my new tattoo?

You should moisturize your clean tattoo 3 – 6 times per day, for roughly two weeks (though proper skincare is always important, and most tattoo enthusiasts moisturize their tattoos daily for life!). A white cream lotion or moisturizer, preferably unscented, should be used!

When can I stop washing my tattoo?

As part of the healing process, you can stop washing your tattoo with soap after: The tattooed area has completely finished scabbing and peeling. Your artist has confirmed it's ok to do so.

Tattoo Aftercare Routine | Tattoo Healing Process

Can a tattoo heal in a week?

A tattoo may look healed within a few days. However, it's important to stay consistent with aftercare: The healing process can actually take as long as 6 months. We'll go over the healing stages of a tattoo, what types of tattoos take longer to heal, and the best aftercare practices to keep it clean.

Can clothes touch your new tattoo?

Loose clothes will cover the tattoo so much so that it stays protected. There is a lower chance the fabric will stick to the tattoo and introduce contaminants as well. There will be minimal or rubbing of the fabrics against the tattoo, which will significantly minimize healing issues or the chance of an infection.

Can you wash a new tattoo too much?

Yes, it is definitely possible to overwash your tattoo.

If you overwash your tattoo, this can lead to you accidentally washing away your body's beneficial bacteria, which will then prevent your tattoo from healing properly.

Do I keep washing my tattoo when it's peeling?

So, should you wash your tattoo when it's peeling? Yes, definitely. The peeling process usually starts 4-5 days after getting the tattoo, and you should keep cleaning it out and caring for it very gently.

Will my tattoo dry out overnight?

In the early days of the tattoo healing process, we can't stress enough how important it is to clean your tattoo frequently, but also moisturize it with nutrients that your skin needs to heal faster. After you take your wraps off, there's a chance that your bed and mattress could make your tattoo dry.

What happens if I forgot to wash my tattoo?

If you miss a few chances to wash it or moisturize it, don't worry. Your body is completely capable of healing it without any help.

How do I know if my tattoo is healing properly?

What should you not do after a tattoo?

Will my tattoo scab fall off?

Although a scab over your tattoo can be alarming, it's usually a normal part of the healing process. Most tattoos scab over after a few days and the scab falls off on its own within a week. To help the scab fall off naturally, protect it from irritation and don't pick it!

How do you know if you over moisturize a tattoo?

Due to excess moisture, the tattoo won't be able to dry and heal. Excess moisture can create a perfect environment for bacteria and germ growth. Over moisturizing can lead to tattoo inflammation and infection. Excess moisture can cause clogged pores since the moisturizer prevents the skin from breathing.

How can I speed up my tattoo healing?

When should I stop using Aquaphor on my tattoo?

Use the Aquaphor for the first 2-3 days then switch to a regular FRAGRANCE-FREE lotion such as Lubriderm, or any other fragrance-free brand. 5. Fresh tattoos sometimes “weep” during the first couple of days, meaning that plasma and ink form a thin moist coating on the skin.

Why does my tattoo look faded after a week?

The tattooing process prompts your body to kill off and shed the damaged skin cells, while it regenerates brand new skin over the tattooed area. As this old, damaged layer of skin dies, it sits on the surface for a while, forming a translucent layer over your tattoo, giving it a faded, milky appearance.

Should I cover my tattoo at night?

Many artists will recommend sleeping with your tattoo wrapped for the first few nights (up to 3-4). This protects it from bacteria, your sheets, and accidental picking or ripping of the scabs. Use only a good wrap developed specifically for tattoo healing, which should be breathable, anti-bacterial, and waterproof.

What happens if you don't moisturize your tattoo?

Your skin may itch or burn because of a lack of moisture in the area, so it may feel impossible to ignore the urge to scratch. Larger areas of your skin may get extremely dry, scabbing more deeply and cracking open over large swathes that can affect how your tattoo looks when the healing process is done.

How do you shower with a new tattoo?

Use a mild, antibacterial soap – it is essential you use a mild, antibacterial, fragrance-free soap when showering with a tattoo, or when washing the tattoo itself. Try to be gentle and do not press or rub the tattoo. Use lukewarm water and try not to lather the soap during the very first tattoo wash.

How do I clean a new tattoo?

Gently wash the tattoo with antimicrobial soap and water and be sure to pat dry. Apply a layer of antibacterial/Vaseline ointment twice a day, but don't put on another bandage. Gently wash your tattoo area twice a day with soap and water and gently pat dry before reapplying the antibacterial/Vaseline ointment.

When can I touch my tattoo?

Tattooing is considered a sort of medical procedure, so the tattoo is an open, fresh wound that requires proper aftercare. During the first day, your tattoo should be wrapped and protected and kept so at least overnight. You should be wearing some loose clothes and avoid touching the tattoo.

How should a tattoo feel after 2 days?

Your skin will be dry and flakey as it heals, so some level of itchiness is to be expected. Some clients may also have a slight allergic reaction to some inks, which may cause an itchy feeling. Although it may take every ounce of willpower, do not scratch your new tattoo.

Can you over moisturize a tattoo?

Yes, in fact it's common belief that the more you moisturize your tattoo, the better. But the truth is, that over moisturizing leads to clogged pores and breakouts in your skin. Your tattoo is like an open wound and it will dry out occasionally, however, do not over moisturize in an attempt to keep it from drying out.